christmas

  • 25 Gorgeous Winter Nails & Designs

    25 Gorgeous Winter Nails & Designs

    Winter nail season is here.

    Winter is coming! Shorter days and cold, dark nights are upon us. In addition, it is dismally cold outside, but it is a cool time for nail trends. Fall nails have much appeal, but just like seasons change, so do current trends.

    ‘Tis the season for sparkle, shimmer, glitter, and snow! The winter nails are here to sleigh, spread joy, and be the gift that keeps on giving. 

    Disclaimer: Heads up! My posts contain affiliate links. However, if you decide to buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but I’ll get a small commission, which helps keep the lights on. Thanks!

    Elegant, Classy, Gorgeous Winter Nails

    If you are looking for nail inspiration, the nail designs and colors are all about big fun with minimal work this season. Red and green are not the only colors for the holidays! There are a lot of metallics, icy blues, and wintry hues for inspiration. These designs are so fire that your manicures will melt the snow this winter. 

    Classy winterish nails
    Glamorous maroon winter nails
    Glamorous maroon winter nails

    You can never go wrong with shiny, sparkly nails. If you want to try to recreate this nail design, you’ll need matte maroon polish, glossy maroon polish, and glitter polish.

    gorgeous ombre winter nails
    gorgeous ombre winter nails

    How gorgeous is this ombre nail design? These nails are perfect for the winter & any winter outfit essentials.

    Goregous, Classy White Winter Nails

    icy chill winter nails
    icy chill winter nails
    milky white marble nails
    milky white marble nails
    opulent glitter winter nails
    opulent glitter winter nails

    A nail design that can be recreated with minimal work needed to accomplish it! This cute, simple design will cost you a little shimmer and glitter, with a little gloss and a clear coat.

    arctic blue winter nails
    arctic blue winter nails
    frost winter wonderland nails
    frost winter wonderland nails

    This nail art is all about fun and festive vibes. If you’re looking for something icy, this nail art is definitely cool enough for you to try.

    metallic frozen winter nails
    metallic frozen winter nails

    In the midst of grey skies and gloomy days, a new nail design is guaranteed to switch up the mood! To recreate this look and the look below, you will need glitter, grey, and holographic nail polish.

    posh frost winter nails
    posh frost winter nails

    In the midst of grey skies and gloomy days, a new nail design is guaranteed to switch up the mood! To recreate this look and the look above, you will need glitter, grey, and holographic nail polish.

    green Christmas ornament nails
    green Christmas ornament nails

    This oval design and art is the perfect choice for holiday nails. You’ll need green, white, and glitter nail polish to recreate this festive look.

    red christmas nail art
    red christmas nail art
    red sleek stiletto holiday nails
    red sleek stiletto holiday nails

    Go for this classy red nail design this holiday season for sleek and effortlessly hot nails!

    classy black nail art
    classy black nail art

    If you’re looking for something simple and natural this winter, try this classy black nail look.

    gorgeous christmas ornament nails
    gorgeous christmas ornament nails

    Here’s another festive Christmas nail design if you’re looking for natural nails this winter season.

    basic cozy winter nails
    basic cozy winter nails
    textured grey winter nails
    textured grey winter nails

    Grey has never looked so good! These nails are so gorgeous and will be easy to recreate with stickers and two shades of grey nail polish.

    Christmas blue winter nails
    Christmas blue winter nails

    If you’re feeling blue this season, you’ll want to try this starry night nail art the next time you’re in the salon.

    cute grey christmas nails
    cute grey christmas nails

    Another holiday nail design for your Christmas spirit! This nail art is a cuteness overload of all of your favorite winter things.

    cute peppermint holiday nails
    cute peppermint holiday nails

    Another holiday nail design for your Christmas spirit! This nail art is a cuteness overload of all of your favorite holiday things.

    cute oval snowflake nails
    cute oval snowflake nails

    Here’s another festive Christmas nail design if you’re looking for natural nails this winter season.

    glamorous classy winter nails
    glamorous classy winter nails

    A nail design that can be recreated with minimal work needed to accomplish it! This cute, simple design will cost you a little shimmer and glitter, white polish, and a clear coat.

    whimsical holiday nail art

    If you’re feeling whimsical this season, these unicorn coffin nails could be your next nail design. Gorgeous ombre nail design with glitter and unicorns!

    snowflake sweater winter nails
    snowflake sweater winter nails

    If you didn’t get to try this trend out during the fall, you still have a chance! Sweater nails are still trendy for the winter. To recreate this look you’ll need a nude color (or whatever color of your choice) and white polish for the nail art (snowflake, ornament, etc).

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    • 25 Gorgeous Winter Nails & Designs


  • 25 Best Christmas Songs For The Ultimate Holiday Playlist

    25 Best Christmas Songs For The Ultimate Holiday Playlist

    Siri, play the “Best Christmas Songs” playlist. It is officially Christmas time in the city (we only acknowledge Christmas after Thanksgiving over here). I know that many of you have started prepping for Christmas by decorating and shopping. I don’t fault you for getting a headstart on spreading the holiday cheer! Even though we all choose different times of the year to start celebrating Christmas, there is one certain thing:

    There’s something magical in Christmas music!

    What could it be? It could be the traditions we create, the nostalgia, and the feelings that come over us whenever we hear our favorite Christmas songs. Hearing the right Christmas song is guaranteed to put anyone (Santa or the Grinch) in a merry mood. So, even if you’ve already started decorating the house, trimming the tree, wrapping presents, or needing to change your bah-hum-bug attitude, I’ve created a list of the Best Christmas Songs of all time.

    This list has many traditional and modern songs that you can add to your playlist this year. The songs range from many different genres of music– from gospel, rhythm and blues, and pop. You can definitely expect to find some of your favorites on this list! There is something on here for everyone! Whether you prefer originals or your favorite renditions, you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll love. As you are putting together your Christmas playlist this year, use this list of the best Christmas songs to help you create the ultimate holiday vibes.

    List of Best Christmas Songs

    “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” Mariah Carey

    Mariah Carey “All I Want For Christmas Is You” Christmas Song

    No Christmas playlist is complete without the best-selling modern-day Christmas song of all time.

    “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus,” Jackson 5

    Jackson 5 “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” Christmas Song

    It’s always wonderful to hear young Michael sing. This rendition by the Jackson 5 will for sure have everyone singing and dancing together.

    “You’re a Mean One,” Tyler the Creator

    “You’re Mean One” from The Grinch (2018) Christmas Song

    The Thurl Ravenscroft version is a phenomenal classic, however this modern version from the 2018 remake of The Grinch from Tyler, the Creator is just as great.

    “This Christmas,” Chris Brown

    “This Christmas” music video from Chris Brown

    There are so many great versions of “This Christmas”. I’ve got to admit that this Chris Brown remake knows how to get in the holiday spirit! Add this version or your favorite rendition to your playlist and you’ll catch yourself singing along in no time.

    “Santa Baby,” Eartha Kitt

    Eartha Kitt, “Santa Baby” Christmas Song

    This classic holiday tune is my favorite Eartha Kitt song of all time. If you are needing some ideas for what to include on your Christmas list, play this song for some inspiration 😉

    “Let It Snow,” Boyz II Men featuring Brian McKnight

    Boyz II Men music video for “Let It Snow” Christmas Song

    I’m not making any promises that it’ll snow where you are, but just in case, I’ve got something that will make snow happen right in your living room. Listen to the smooth voices of Boyz II Men and Brian McKnight to make your winter season warmer!

    “8 Days of Christmas,” Destiny’s Child

    Destiny’s Child music video for “8 Days of Christmas”

    A fun spin on the 12 Days of Christmas and guaranteed to make you do a little holiday dance!

    “Silent Night,” The Temptations

    Silent Night Christmas Song

    “In my mind” your playlist will never be the same. The Temptations truly sang us into a blissful, peaceful night.

    “My Favorite Things,” The Supremes

    My Favorite Things Christmas Song

    Although I love the original from the 1959 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical “The Sound of Music”, I prefer listening to this rendition by The Supremes.

    “Player’s Ball,” Outkast

    Official music video of “Player’s Ball” from Outkast

    The 1994 Outkast album, Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik was heralded by this song as their lead single which was just in time for the holidays. The song imagines a “player’s ball” for pimps and hustlers on Christmas Day.

    “Sleigh Ride,” TLC

    Official music video for “Sleigh Ride”

    Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year with this fun, holiday classic. You’ll be spreading lots of good cheer with this holiday dance tune.

    “What Do the Lonely Do?,” The Emotions

    What Do The Lonely Do by The Emotions

    Christmas time can bring lots of feelings and emotions for everyone. You’re not alone! Whether you’ll be celebrating with family in person or virtually this year, this song will be sure to help you get through your holiday emotions.

    “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” The Temptations

    Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Christmas Song

    The famous reindeer of all has countless Christmas songs about him, but I’ve got to say that this one is my favorite! This rendition by The Temptations will for sure make you join in on all the reindeer games.

    “Silver and Gold,” Kirk Franklin

    Silver and Gold Christmas Song

    Whenever I want to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, I always play this beautiful gospel song from Kirk Franklin and the Family. “I’d rather have Jesus, than silver and gold.”

    “Do You Hear What I Hear?” Whitney Houston

    Audio from “Do You Hear What I Hear” on Youtube

    Enjoy a holiday tune from the greatest voice of all time! Whitney Houston’s “Do You Hear What I Hear” is a beautiful classic spin on previous renditions of the song.

    “Silver Bells,” Johnny Mathis

    Silver Bells by Johnny Mathis

    The unofficial announcement song of the Christmas holiday season.

    “Merry Christmas Baby,” Otis Redding

    Otis Redding’s’ “Merry Christmas Baby”

    An American Christmas standard song that has been covered dozens of times. This rendition recorded by Otis Redding in 1968 is sure to be a playlist favorite.

    “Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire,” Nat King Cole

    https://youtu.be/huGJNckrvoE
    “Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire”

    One of the most famous Christmas songs of all time is also known as “The Christmas Song”.

    “Christmas in Hollis,” Run DMC

    Music video for “Christmas in Hollis” by Run DMC

    “Christmas in Hollis” is the ultimate holiday song. Wrapped in samples of “Frosty the Snowman,” “Jingle Bells,” and “Joy to the World,” and one of the best Christmas gifts ever presented in song.

    “O Holy Night,” Mariah Carey

    Music video for “O Holy Night” on Youtube

    A truly iconic performance of “O Holy Night” from the Queen of Christmas.

    “Christmas Just Ain’t Christmas,” The O’ Jays

    Holidays are most meaningful when they are spent with the ones you love. If you are planning to spend Christmas with family and friends, this song will be a great addition to the playlist.

    “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” Luther Vandross

    “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”

    A soulful rendition of this classic Christmas song by Luther Vandross.

    “O Come All Ye Faithful,” Juanita Bynum

    Audio of “O Come All Ye Faithful” by Juanita Bynum

    A rendition of the classic holiday song by gospel singer Juanita Bynum.

    “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” Brian McKnight

    “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” track from Brian McKnight

    Another song for your holiday travels and family gatherings.

    “Jingle Bells,” Ella Fitzgerald

    Clip of Ella Fitzgerald’s performance of “Jingle Bells”

    Known as “one of the smoothest voices ever”, Ella Fitzgerald brings a swinging, unique sound to this Christmas classic.


    Need More Christmas Songs?

    Follow me on Apple Music to listen to my playlists. Be sure to leave me a comment below so that I can follow back 🎄🥳


  • Comfort Foods: One Delicious Chocolate Velvet Cake

    Comfort Foods: One Delicious Chocolate Velvet Cake

    The holidays have arrived! The 2021 holiday season would like to enter the chat and remind you to start prepping for the busy season. With Thanksgiving being just three weeks away, I have to ask. Have you finalized your holiday plans for the year? What comfort foods will you have this season? Who will be cooking for the holidays? What does your holiday dinner menu look like?


    If you aren’t able to answer those questions yet, it’s okay. Don’t panic. You still have a couple of weeks to make and finalize your plans! It doesn’t matter if you are the one doing the cooking, bringing a dish to the work potluck, or family gathering; I have an idea for a recipe that you’ll want to try this year. This Chocolate Velvet Cake recipe will bring something different to any menu and is the perfect addition to your holiday spread. Hopefully, this recipe will make your comfort foods list!

    That’s right. If you’re a chocolate lover, you will love this recipe! It’s an alternative to some of your favorite holiday desserts (red velvet or German chocolate). I found this recipe online via the Magnolia Charm Baking Company, and I’ve been thinking about adding it to my Thanksgiving menu. Every year I search for recipes and dinner suggestions to get ideas for my menu theme; this year was no different. Y’all, I believe this will be a sweet conversation piece around the table this year!

    Hold on. Before I reveal the recipe…

    magnolia charm owners

    You should know more about the creators of this recipe!

    MCBC is a family-owned cake and dessert boutique. Magnolia Charm’s cakes and desserts are made to order with only the best ingredients and personalized for any special event or occasion. Magnolia Charm’s mission is to create memorable sweets that exceed customer expectations through innovative, high-quality ingredients, event personalization, impeccable service, and flawless presentation.


    Delicious, Chocolate Comfort Foods

    Click here to reveal MCBC’s Chocolate Velvet Cake recipe. Be sure to download and save it so that you can make this dessert whenever you’d like!

    The Magnolia Charm Baking Company is located in the Greater Baltimore area and accepts local custom cake and dessert orders. You can visit the Magnolia Charm website to get more sweet recipes, view their portfolio, and shop their online store. Follow Magnolia Charm on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and other social media platforms for updates and recipes!

    I’ve got to know if you will be giving this Chocolate Velvet Cake recipe a try this holiday season? What are some of your must-have desserts?

    Leave a comment below!


  • Which Gingerbread House Kit Is The Best?

    Which Gingerbread House Kit Is The Best?

    I hope the holiday season has brought peace and joy to you and your family. I know that the season has not been ideal for my family and me, but we have managed to create new traditions this year, with a little help from Walmart and their Gingerbread House Kit. Well, more like their brownie kit. I have never made gingerbread houses or men before.

    I’m finding new ways to spread Christmas cheer by starting new family traditions. When I saw these holiday baking projects on Pinterest, I was excited to introduce the idea to my family. Next, after they got on board, we chose our family baking project together. Additionally, I asked a few of my followers on social media for their votes on each project and the brownies WON! I picked up our easy-to-use brownie kit from Wal-Mart and brought it home to bring lots of warmth, love, and laughter to our home.

    Gingerbread House Kit from Wal- Mart

    Great Value Gingerbread Man Brownie Kit, 15.68 oz:

    • Makes about 8 brownies
    • Includes all of the dry ingredients and decorations needed to make gingerbread man brownies
    • Easy to follow instructions provided on the box
    • Create delicious, rich brownies that friends and family are sure to love

    Contains wheat. May contain traces of milk, eggs, cod, salmon, and coconut.

    My son Landon and I enjoyed baking these brownies together. I must admit that I was a little nervous about how “into this” he was going to be. Being a boy mom you never know what you will get when it comes to the things that boys like and dislike to do. I recorded a video of us baking our wonderful gingerbread brownies and you can watch it below. The Gingerbread Brownie Kit from Wal-Mart can be purchased in-store or online and includes a gingerbread cookie cutter, icing, and sprinkles.

    Merry Christmas!

    Thank you for joining us in creating our first mother and son holiday tradition. We are wishing you a jolly Christmas and a prosperous New Year! Be sure to keep following us for more content in 2021!

    What holiday traditions did you create this year? What traditions did you manage to keep or modify? How will you be keeping your season bright? Let us know in the comments below.

    Check out more baking recipes: